Understanding the stages of building a custom built home is the first step in creating your dream. Working with a knowledgeable, reputable builder like Colby Construction is the best way to begin. The journey is unique for each homeowner, but there is a basic road map to follow when you make the decision to have your dream home become a reality.

Stages of Building a Custom Built Home

Step 1: The Idea and Conception of Your Home

Every new home begins with the idea, what type of home you want. Is your dream to build a lake home? What lake do you want to live on and are there properties available? How big will it be? A ranch or a two-story? Do you dream of a walkout lower level? All of these ideas need to be made into a plan.

Step 2: Get Your Finances in Order

Once you have an idea of what you want your home to be, speak with your financial advisor and your bank or lender. Find out the feasibility of your project financially and put a budget together.

Step 3: Build a Dream Team

Working with Colby Construction, they will help you to create a team that will work with you to make this dream a reality. They can help you select an architect if you don’t already have one, as well as an interior designer and landscaper. You will be working very closely with the assembled team, so you want to be sure they are all ready to move ahead with your plan.

Step 4: Purchase your Lot

If you are building on a lake lot with an existing home, you will also need to tear that down. Working with Colby Construction, they can guide you through this process. If it is a vacant lot, they will prepare the site so it is ready for construction.

Step 5: Designing Your Home

Your architect and builder will work hand in hand with you to design a home that will meet your family’s needs. This is the fun part! Take your time during this process and be sure the roadmap that is created is everything you want it to be. There are items that may come into play; for instance, environmental laws on lakes have to be considered. A well-designed home will bring you happiness for many years to come.

Step 6: Construction

You have your lot, your design is complete! You’ve got all the necessary permits and it’s time for construction to get underway. The construction of a custom built home usually takes anywhere from 12-18 months depending on the scope of the project. This is an exciting time, as you get to watch all of your time spent dreaming of your new home come to life! During the construction phase, you will also be picking out all of the items that truly make your home unique. From your hardware for the cabinets to your countertops and bathroom sinks, all of your selections will be made at this time.

Step 7: Move In Day

Occupancy time has finally arrived! Your project manager will walk you through your home for a final inspection and educate you on how all of the systems in your house work. You will receive all of your owner’s manuals and warranties, and be sure that everything is completed. You may still be finishing up final touches with your interior designer and landscaper. Your builder will work with the local inspector so that you can receive your occupancy permit and move into your new custom dream home. Your hard work to get here has paid off, and now it’s time to sit back and enjoy your beautiful space.

Here a few photos of Colby Construction projects at various phases of the building process.